A stunning celestial event is just around the corner—early in the morning on Friday, March 14th, a total lunar eclipse will take place, turning the moon a deep reddish hue, often called a "blood moon." This spectacular sight will be visible across North and South America, where viewers will be able to witness all phases of the eclipse. Some parts of Western Europe, East Asia, and Australia may also catch glimpses of certain phases during moonset or moonrise.
Best Places to See the Blood Moon
For those in North and South America, the West Coast offers the best viewing conditions, as March weather in that region tends to be clearer with less cloud cover. No matter where you are, the key to a great viewing experience is to find a spot away from city lights to avoid light pollution.
While the blood moon can be seen with the naked eye, using a telescope or binoculars can enhance the experience, allowing you to see more details of the moon’s changing colors.
How Long Will It Last?
If you're in the total eclipse viewing path, the entire event will last five to six hours from start to finish. However, the moon will remain in its striking reddish hue for about 65 minutes—the highlight of the eclipse.
Why Does the Moon Turn Red?
A blood moon occurs when Earth blocks direct sunlight from reaching the moon during a total lunar eclipse. The only light that reaches the moon is filtered through Earth’s atmosphere, scattering short wavelengths and allowing only longer red wavelengths to pass through. This process gives the moon its eerie red glow.
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